We reported several weeks ago about a spate of gasoline thefts in Northeast Nebraska. Madison County deputies yesterday arrested a man following a high-speed chase that began after a reported gasoline theft and continued into Antelope County.
Madison County deputies had been investigating multiple thefts in the area and had developed a possible suspect and associated vehicle. Investigators determined that the same individual was suspected of involvement in similar thefts in neighboring counties. Multiple arrest warrants were in the process of being issued and signed by a judge.
A Madison County resident reported the theft of gasoline in the morning from their property near Highway 81 and 835 Road. The victim observed the suspect and vehicle leaving the property and followed while remaining in contact with 911 dispatch. Madison County deputies intercepted the reporting party and the suspect vehicle and attempted a traffic stop on 833rd Road, northwest of Madison.
The driver refused to stop and fled, initiating a pursuit during which speeds exceeded 100 miles per hour at times. The pursuit continued from Madison County into Antelope County, with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol, Battle Creek Police Department, and Madison Police Department. The pursuit continued onto a minimum-maintenance road, speeds decreased. The suspect vehicle became temporarily stuck before reversing direction and intentionally ramming a Madison County patrol vehicle. The driver then left the roadway and continued fleeing through farm fields. Additional law enforcement officers responded and worked to contain the suspect vehicle within the fields. A pursuit intervention technique was subsequently used to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver surrendered without further incident.
30-year old Zach Heying, of rural Petersburg, was arrested and is will face multiple charges related to the theft investigations, the pursuit, and the collision involving the patrol vehicle.